Project Title:

Hermetically Sealed Aluminum Electrolytic Capacitor

10.08-9399
900965
Hermetically Sealed Aluminum Electrolytic Capacitor

Abstract:

A hermetically sealed aluminum electrolytic capacitor will be develops as a replacement
for tantalum capacitors in space power systems. This will significantly reduce power
supply volume and weight. These capacitors will operate from -55oC to 1050C, have
an estimated 20 year life, and have a high CV product, for example, 1000F250 WV.
The availability of a family of such components will make easier the design of higher
power circuits. The innovations leading to this new capacitor are a novel seal design
that avoids the problems associated with an aluminum-glass bond, and a low-gassing
electrolyte that limits the internal pressure during the operating life to safe levels.
In Phase I prototype electrolytes will be developed and tested, and gas generation
data will be obtained from which estimates will be made of internal pressure over
operating life at different conditions. These estimates will demonstrate the feasibility
of this device. The seal will be developed in Phase II.
Other applications for a hermetic sealed electrolytic capacitor are found in commercial
satellites and in medical electronic implants. When used in conventional capacitors,
the new electrolyte will provide higher reliability performance at high-temperature
and will be particularly good for power electronic components such as are used in
inverter circuits.
aluminum electrolytic capacitor, hermetic seal, electrolyte, pressure, gas